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Career Strategy · Executive PresentationP1

Turn a chart into a data story without losing context

Scott Berinato demonstrates a setup–conflict–resolution structure using a chart. A story can focus attention, but it should not distort the data or substitute for sound analysis.

P1
Harvard Business ReviewAmerican English4:47

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Lesson’s central idea

State the situation, show what changed, and explain what that change means—while keeping the measurement, comparison, and limitations visible.

Advice cards

Every distinct, useful career strategy tip from this video, with its source moment and a reality check.

3 tips · 1 category

Tip 01 · Data context

Give the audience a baseline before interpreting a number

0:35–1:24

What to do

Berinato says a single figure may not tell the audience whether performance is good or bad and demonstrates comparing it with relevant history.

Why it may help

A meaningful comparison gives a number a reference point.

Practical adaptation · verify your details

Show this quarter beside the same quarter last year and explain any change in collection method.

When it may not fit

Use comparable periods and definitions; do not invent a benchmark when one is unavailable.

Broadly supported

Independent cross-check

Waterloo business-case guidance recommends transparent evidence and alternatives; sound comparison depends on the measure and context.

Tip 02 · Change over time

Show what changed, not just the latest snapshot

1:25–2:48

What to do

The video uses a housing-price chart to illustrate a situation, a change, and a new state.

Why it may help

A time series or before-and-after comparison can make a trend or break easier to inspect.

Practical adaptation · verify your details

Mark the policy change on the chart, but describe it as a possible contributor unless causal evidence supports more.

When it may not fit

Correlation or sequence alone does not establish cause; label dates, units, and relevant events.

Common but context-dependent

Independent cross-check

Waterloo advises evaluating alternatives and success measures rather than presenting an unexplained result.

Tip 03 · Meaning and action

Connect the pattern to a decision only when the evidence supports it

3:10–4:35

What to do

Berinato reframes a chart as a story by identifying the situation, conflict, and resolution.

Why it may help

A clear takeaway helps a business audience understand why the chart is included.

Practical adaptation · verify your details

End with the implication for the decision, followed by the limitation that could change the recommendation.

When it may not fit

A narrative can overstate causality or hide conflicting data; include uncertainty and reasonable alternative explanations.

Broadly supported with limits

Independent cross-check

Waterloo business-case guidance supports connecting evidence to a need while considering alternatives and risks.